GREENSBORO, N.C. -- Greensboro park-goers now can begin using three of the more than a dozen "little libraries" coming to Guilford County this summer.

"Little libraries," which resemble large bird houses filled with books for all reading levels, are in Lindley Park (near the pool), Sternberger Park and in Cascade Park. Additional"little libraries," including 10 from BB&T and those being constructed by other Triad businesses and non-profit groups, will be installed in the coming weeks. Locations for those have not yet been determined, according to Anna Hoy with Greensboro Parks & Recreation.

Jenny Caviness with Greensboro Parks and Recreation and Christy Collum with Reading Connections said the objective is to get enough partners to be able to build "little libraries" for all 300 parks in Guilford County.

Collum explained the purpose of the "little libraries" is to increase literacy among both children and adults in Guilford County. She said only one in 300 low-income households has books. Additionally, one in five adults in Guilford County cannot read.

Alfredo Coronado, who lives in Greensboro with his family, moved from Mexico in 2006 and said he could not read English very well. He told WFMY News 2 he believes the "little libraries" are very valuable resources, especially as he and his family continue to learn to read through Reading Connections' Family Literacy program.

Greensboro park-goers now can begin using three of the more than a dozen "little libraries" coming to Guilford County this summer.
WFMY News 2

"It's good. Because after they play, they can pick out books for reading. Same for me, because when I finish walking I like to read something, and if it's available in the parks, it's good for all the kids and the parents," he said.

People who take books are encouraged to contribute some in exchange, though Reading Connections said it wants families to keep the books, if they cannot afford them. However, because of this policy, Reading Connections said it needs continuous donations with which to replenish the "little libraries."

To donate books or volunteer to build a "little library," contact Reading Connections by calling (336) 230-2223 or visiting its website.